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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of internal organs. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor. Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber that was utilized in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers, and veteran employees are at risk the most of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? Mesothelioma, a form of cancer, grows in the protective linings that surround various organs in the body, referred to as the mesothelium. Most often, malignant mesothelioma is found in the lung (pleura) and abdomen. It may also grow in the linings of the heart or testes (pericardium). About 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. The exposure to asbestos is the sole known mesothelioma causing factor. Asbestos is a fibrous, brittle material that was once a popular choice in American industries because it was affordable and fire-proof. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings as well as ships, aircrafts, and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to asbestos can lead to mesothelioma decades after exposure. The first signs of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other diseases like lung cancer, which makes it difficult to determine. These early symptoms can include difficulty breathing and chest pain as well as a persistent cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, including fatigue and weight loss, could develop. There are four types of mesothelioma. Each type has distinct prognosis. The most commonly encountered type is pleural, which affects the lung linings (pleura) and the chest cavity. Other types of mesothelioma are testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each type has its own unique symptoms, but all types are defined by an inflamed, malignant tumor that covers vital organs and hinders their function. When doctors suspect mesothelioma they will request a biopsy to determine if cancerous cells are present. A tissue sample is taken from the affected region and examined under microscope. If cancer is found the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid cancer accounts for 70 percent to 88% of mesothelioma patients and is more responsive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma, on the other hand, accounts for just 10% of all mesothelioma-related diagnoses and has a less favorable prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more at chance of developing mesothelioma than others. These include those who work in the asbestos industry, veterans of the military and those who have mesothelioma-related family history. Also, those who have had asbestos-related radiation therapy are at a higher risk of mesothelioma. Mesothelioma Signs and Symptoms Mesothelioma is a cancer of the tissues that protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lungs (pleura) and abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The risk of developing mesothelioma increases when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma is the most prevalent mesothelioma. It affects the lining of the lungs. Asbestos fibers can cause irritation to mesothelium. As time passes, cells become damaged and genetic changes result in them becoming malignant. Tumors develop. The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, but they typically include coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea weight loss, and trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, and it can take anywhere from 10 to 60 years for the first signs to appear. The symptoms are often mistaken for other diseases such as the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnose because it is a rare condition and its symptoms are similar to other illnesses. Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma to asbestos exposure until late-stage mesothelioma. The doctor will inquire about the patient's previous asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to help diagnose mesothelioma and rule out other diseases. The doctor may also suggest blood tests and imaging scans for the chest or abdomen. Imaging tests may include CT scans or MRIs as well as PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy may be ordered by the doctor to confirm the diagnosis of mesothelioma and to determine the kind of mesothelioma is present. The biopsy could be an exploratory procedure or a minimally-invasive procedure. In a biopsy, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and look for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma cases are epithelioid. The sarcomatoid variant is less responsive to treatment and has a shorter time to live. The epithelioid kind is more responsive to treatment and has a higher chance of survival. The biphasic form is a mixture of the first two types and accounts for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnosis. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is most often found in the lung linings and the abdomen. It can also occur in the linings of the heart or the pericardium. Every year, mesothelioma gets discovered in about 3,000 people. It is the sole known cancer caused by asbestos. It typically takes 20-50 years for mesothelioma development after exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with properties that resist heat. It was extensively used in a variety of American industries because of its low cost and fire resistance. The asbestos industry was especially lucrative for the construction industry, as it was employed to insulate and strengthen vehicles, ships, buildings and other products. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of exposure to asbestos. Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health problems. These fibers can easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. As norwalk asbestos attorney passes the irritation causes scar tissue to build up and can cause tumors. Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. Pleural mesothelioma is most common that affects the lining of the chest cavity and the lungs. It is the most frequent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or discomfort. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as pain, swelling or digestive issues. It can also affect the linings of the heart, causing unique symptoms like chest pains or palpitations. Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other ailments. It is essential to see your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and may conduct imaging tests to check for any abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will help doctors determine if mesothelioma-related changes are forming within your body. Mesothelioma is not a contagious disease but family members of asbestos-related patients have a higher chance of developing the disease. Workers who were exposed to asbestos brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. They could breathe asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure is the term used to describe this type of asbestos exposure secondhand. Treatment for Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that starts when the cells of the human body begin to grow uncontrollably. They can also reproduce themselves and spread to other parts of the body, causing the formation of tumors. The main risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a fibrous mineral employed in construction, and other industries, prior to when it was banned in the 1970s. When it is exposed to air, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or eaten. They can then become stuck in the lining of specific organs and cause mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is the most frequent cancer among those who have been exposed to asbestos. This includes those who are accountable for removing it or handling it. However blue-collar workers and relatives of those who worked with asbestos are also at risk. Workers could bring asbestos fibers back to their homes on their clothing. Family members can inhale these fibers when they wash their clothes. While mesothelioma can be rare, it's important to see a doctor in case your symptoms are linked to this condition. Chest pain, breathing difficulties or a recurring cold are all symptoms. The doctor will inquire about your medical history and whether you have ever been exposed to asbestos. They'll also conduct a physical exam and a chest X-ray to check for signs of mesothelioma. Other tests can include a computed tomography (CT) scan or positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Your doctor will discuss the options for treatment with you if mesothelioma is diagnosed. This could include surgery, chemo or radiation. The mesothelioma type and how far it has advanced will determine the type of treatment available. The right treatment can boost the chance of survival, even though there is no cure. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to learn more about this condition and the available treatments. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. We can also be reached by calling us at 1-888-3146906. You can ask nurses any questions. A lawyer can be reached to arrange a no-cost consultation on the possibility of filing a lawsuit against mesothelioma. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones get the compensation they deserve.